Des Moines set to host 2013 USA Outdoor Track & Field Championships

USA Track & Field on Wednesday announced its intent to host the 2013 USA Outdoor Track & Field Championships in Des Moines, Iowa, on the campus of Drake University.

The championships will be hosted by the Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau, the Des Moines Area Sports Commission and Drake University.

The USA Outdoor Track & Field Championships were previously held in Des Moines in 2010, where the five-day event produced two American records in women’s competition - Chaunte Lowe in the high jump and Kara Patterson in the javelin.

Des Moines is best known for hosting the annual Drake Relays for more than 100 years where a sell-out crowd and more than 8,000 participants gather for one of the greatest traditions in track and field. The city has recently hosted the NCAA Outdoor Championships in 2008 and 2011 and is set to host the 2012 event. In 2004, the 14,467 seat facility at Drake underwent a $15 million renovation, including the creation of the Track Central USA Fan Zone.

"We are proud to once again welcome USATF to Track Central USA in Des Moines,” said Greg Edwards, Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau President and CEO. “We are thankful to have a strong partnership with Drake University and the Athletic Department. It is their dedication that helps ensure the athletes, coaches and fans have the experience of a lifetime at the great Drake Stadium.

“The community support for track and field in our city is phenomenal. We couldn't host events like this without city support, local fan involvement and corporate backing.”

“We are happy to announce our return to Des Moines,” said Mike McNees, Interim CEO of USATF. “We look forward to capitalizing on the community’s energy for track and field evident in the ever popular Drake Relays, and we are excited to grow the championships in Des Moines.”